Category Archives: Natural Stone Countertops

Marble Countertops & The Baking Connection

Posted by ExquisiteStone on November 19, 2024

When you think of a classic kitchen, what comes to mind? Perhaps the warm glow of sunlight streaming through a window, the rich aroma of freshly baked goods, and, prominently, the elegant surface of a marble countertop. Marble has not only been a favored choice for countertops due to its aesthetic appeal but has also played a pivotal role in the world of baking for centuries. Let’s explore the fascinating history of marble countertops and their enduring connection to the art of baking.

Bakers have long revered marble for its functional qualities. Its smooth surface is ideal for rolling out dough, and its thermal properties help maintain consistent temperatures. This is particularly important for delicate pastries like puff pastry or croissants, where the incorporation of butter must be managed carefully to achieve the perfect flaky texture.

In addition to functionality, marble also provides a certain level of elegance to the kitchen. The rich veins and varied colors of marble add an artistic touch, transforming a baking space into a chef’s haven. Iconic figures in baking, from Marie Antoinette’s chefs to modern pastry artists, have embraced marble, making it a symbol of culinary excellence.

To keep your marble in pristine condition, a few simple steps can make all the difference. Always use a cutting board to prevent scratches, and clean spills promptly to avoid staining. For deep cleans, a gentle pH-neutral cleaner works wonders. Regular sealing will help protect the surface, allowing you to bake without worry.

Are you a baker and ready to roll out your dough on a new marble countertop? Contact Exquisite Stone today for options and pricing!

chasing the perfect waterfall

Posted by ExquisiteStone on October 25, 2024

It’s important not to run around a waterfall – especially in your kitchen! The mitered waterfall panel has been growing in popularity these days. This is an absolutely stunning way to feature the movement in your natural stone or quartz, and adds a healthy dose of drama to your space. Interested in some more information about adding a waterfall panel to your countertop project? Let us know! Walk-don’t-run to the Exquisite Stone showroom for a free estimate today!

Need a kitchen sink and wondering why there are so many options?

Posted by ExquisiteStone on June 8, 2024

When renovating a kitchen or choosing fixtures for a new home, one of the decisions that might not seem major at first but has significant practical implications is the thickness of your stainless-steel kitchen sink’s metal. This is typically measured in gauge, with common options being 16-gauge and 18-gauge. Understanding the differences between these two can help you make an informed choice that balances durability, aesthetics, and cost. Here’s a detailed look at the pros and cons of 16-gauge and 18-gauge kitchen sinks.

What does “Gauge” mean?

In metal, the gauge refers to the thickness.  A lower gauge means thicker metal, so a 16-gauge sink is thicker than an 18-gauge sink. The thickness affects several aspects of the sink’s performance and durability.

16-gauge Kitchen Sinks

  • Durability: 16-gauge sinks are generally more durable than 18-gauge.  The extra thickness provides resistance to dents and physical damage, which is a plus for a busy home.
  • Noise Reduction: Thicker metal tends to absorb vibration better, which means less noise when you’re washing dishes.
  • Quality of Feel: A thicker sink often feels more solid and less ‘tinny’ when tapped or used, contributing to a perception of higher quality and robust construction.
  • Cost: Because they use more material, 16-gauge sinks are more costly than 18-gauge sinks. This can be a significant factor if budget constraints are tight.

18-gauge Kitchen Sinks

  • Cost-Effective: These sinks are typically less expensive than thicker models, making them a more budget-friendly option for homeowners.
  • Wide Variety:  Because 18-gauge sinks are more common, there’s usually a wider variety of styles and sizes available, making it easier to find one that fits your kitchen’s design.
  • Less Durable: Thinner metal can be more prone to denting and bending, especially under the impact of heavy kitchen use.
  • More Noise: An 18-gauge sink will generally be noisier than a 16-gauge one, as it is less capable of dampening the sound of running water and clanging dishes.

Making the Right Choice

The decision between a 16-gauge and an 18-gauge kitchen sink often comes down to personal preference and practical considerations like your budget and kitchen usage. If durability and quality are your top concerns a 16-gauge sink might be the best choice. However, if you’re looking for a cost-effective option and are willing to compromise slightly on durability and noise, an 18-gauge sink would suffice. 

Need more information about stainless-steel sinks?  Exquisite Stone stocks many options to fit any space from the basement wetbar to the kitchen to the coffee nook in the study.  Stop by today to check out our variety and get started on your next countertop project! 

Ancient Homeowners Also Wanted Stone Countertops

Posted by ExquisiteStone on May 14, 2024

Pompeii, the ancient Roman city buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, is renowned for its extraordinary preservation of daily life, art, and architecture. Among the well-preserved features are the splendid natural stone countertops that adorned the homes of Pompeii’s prosperous citizens. These countertops, crafted from materials like marble and granite, serve as a testament to the enduring allure and functionality of natural stone in interior design.

Pompeii Marketplace

The ancient Romans were masters of engineering and design, and their choices in materials were a testament to their sophistication. Natural stone countertops were highly favored in Pompeii for several reasons:

1. Aesthetic Grandeur: Natural stone countertops in Pompeii were often crafted from marbles like Carrara, which boasted exquisite veining patterns and a luminous surface. These countertops added a touch of opulence to the homes and reflected the social status of their owners.

2. Durability: The eruption of Mount Vesuvius buried Pompeii for centuries, and yet the natural stone countertops remained remarkably intact. This enduring quality testifies to the robust nature of these materials, which can withstand the test of time and the rigors of daily life.

3. Hygienic Properties: Natural stone easier to clean and maintain than other materials available at the time, making it an ideal choice for countertops. In an era where hygiene was of utmost importance, natural stone surfaces contributed to a healthier living environment.

Marble Installation at Pompeii

Natural stone countertops have a long history throughout the world, and our own modern selection choices are made with the same priorities as ancient peoples.  The durability, aesthetic features, and timeless elegance of natural stone endures through time all the way from 79 AD to today. 

Contact Exquisite Stone today for timeless countertop options!